If your phone or internet bill is eating into a fixed budget, there’s a federal program that might quietly cut that cost every month. Lifeline is a long-running FCC program that discounts phone, internet, or bundled service for people who qualify — and a lot of eligible households simply don’t know it exists. Here’s who qualifies, how much it saves, and how to sign up in 2026.

What Is the Lifeline Program

Lifeline is a federal program overseen by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). It reduces the monthly cost of phone service, internet service, or a bundle of both for consumers who meet income or program-based eligibility rules. It’s been around for decades, originally covering only landline phones, but today it applies to mobile and broadband plans too.

Who Qualifies

You can qualify for Lifeline through either of two paths:

• Income-based: Your household’s gross annual income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
• Program-based: You (or someone in your household) participate in a qualifying assistance program, such as SNAP or Medicaid.

Only one Lifeline benefit is allowed per household, regardless of how many household members individually qualify.

How Much You Can Save

Lifeline provides:

• Up to $9.25 per month off phone, internet, or bundled service for most eligible subscribers
• Up to $34.25 per month for eligible subscribers living on qualifying Tribal lands

The exact discount and available plans depend on which participating provider you choose, since providers apply the discount to their own service offerings.

What Services Qualify

Not every plan from every carrier is eligible. Participating providers must meet minimum standards for mobile data allowances and broadband speeds to offer a Lifeline-discounted plan, so it’s worth comparing a few participating providers in your area rather than assuming your current carrier offers it.

How to Apply

You can apply for Lifeline in a few ways:

• Online through the National Verifier
• By mail with a paper application
• Through a participating phone or internet company directly

A few states, including Oregon and Texas, route Lifeline applications through their own state-run portals instead of the federal system, so check your state’s process if you live there.

FAQ

Can I get Lifeline and a separate carrier senior discount at the same time?
It depends on the carrier — some senior or AARP-branded discount plans are separate retail offers that can’t be combined with Lifeline, while other providers do allow stacking. Ask the specific provider before switching.

What documents do I need to prove eligibility?
Typically proof of program participation (like a benefits award letter) for program-based eligibility, or recent income documentation (pay stubs, tax return) for income-based eligibility. The National Verifier will specify what’s needed for your situation.

This article is for general informational purposes and is not financial advice. Eligibility rules and discount amounts can change — always confirm current details at LifelineSupport.org before applying.